Vatican City, Feb 22, 2005 / 22:00 pm
Pope John Paul greeted pilgrims gathered at the Vatican this morning over a television link from the library of his apartment. As previously announced by the Holy See, the Pope addressed a few words to participants in today's general audience.
Because of abnormally bad weather in Rome, the Pope, who was scheduled to greet the crowd from his study window, spoke to them instead via the television link from his private apartments, which was transmitted directly to Paul VI Hall.
"I greet you with affection and I thank you for your attendance", the Holy Father told the group.
"We are following a Lenten journey," he went on, "assisted and stimulated by the liturgy which calls us to a special commitment to prayer, fasting and penitence, and to greater solidarity towards our fellow man, especially towards the poor and needy.”
He called upon the faithful to, “open our hearts to the inner suggestions of grace”, and said, “May selfishness give way to love, that we may have the chance to experience the joy of forgiveness and of intimate reconciliation with God and with our brothers and sisters."
In closing, the Holy Father greeted audience participants in several languages, expressing the hope that their stay in Rome may help them deepen their "love of the Universal Church."
Subscribe to our daily newsletter
At Catholic News Agency, our team is committed to reporting the truth with courage, integrity, and fidelity to our faith. We provide news about the Church and the world, as seen through the teachings of the Catholic Church. When you subscribe to the CNA UPDATE, we'll send you a daily email with links to the news you need and, occasionally, breaking news.
As part of this free service you may receive occasional offers from us at EWTN News and EWTN. We won't rent or sell your information, and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Click hereOur mission is the truth. Join us!
Your monthly donation will help our team continue reporting the truth, with fairness, integrity, and fidelity to Jesus Christ and his Church.
Donate to CNA